Description
Easy pan seared scallops are a quick, elegant seafood dinner ready in under 15 minutes. With a golden crust and tender center, this scallop recipe is perfect for date nights, special occasions, or healthy weeknight meals. Learn how to sear scallops perfectly using simple ingredients like butter, garlic, and lemon.
Ingredients
8 large sea scallops
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons butter (divided)
1 pinch salt
1 pinch black pepper
1 clove garlic (minced, optional)
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
1. Pat the scallops dry thoroughly and remove the side muscle if present.
2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter until shimmering.
3. Place scallops in the pan without crowding. Sear for about 2 minutes until golden.
4. Flip and cook the other side for 1.5 to 2 minutes.
5. In the last 30 seconds, add garlic and remaining butter. Baste the scallops.
6. Remove from heat and drizzle with lemon juice. Serve immediately.
Notes
Scallops must be dry to sear properly — pat them thoroughly.
Use a cast iron or stainless steel skillet for even browning.
Do not overcrowd the pan or the scallops will steam instead of sear.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Pan-Seared
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 scallops
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 42mg